Just 123 km from Jhansi and 23 km from the district headquarters of Lalitpur, Deogarh is situated on the right bank of the Betwa river at the western end of the Lalitpur range of hills. Due to its strategic location(being on the main route to Deccan), it was a bone of contention and figures in the history down the ages. Not surprisingly, it is of great antiquarian, archeological and epigraphical importance and finds mentions in the history of the Guptas, the Gurjara-Pratiharas, the Gonds, the Muslim rulers of Delhi as well as the Marathas and the British. With a dramatic natural setting,the Deogarh fort is entered through a corbelled gateway in the outerwall. During the 8th to 17th centuries,it was a Jain center and still houses 31 Jain temples. Panels depicting scenes from Jain Mythology,votive pillars, votive tablets and Jain images are visible from all sides. Deshavatar temple,dedicated to Lord Vishnu, lying close to the banks of the Betwa is the Jewel of Deogarh. Dated 6th century A.D(Gupta period),this temple is the earliest known Panchayatan temple of north India. The temple is particularly known for its Rathika Panels in recess along its three side walls,is noted for being the first Indian temple with a Shikara or Spire.However,only the lower portion remains of the Shikhara. With the green water of Betwa in vicinity and a small island clad in rich verdure in the middle of the river, the site has got tremendous charm. The Gupta age,known as the 'Golden Age/Era' of Indian history,is exemplified by the superb sculptures,images at Deogarh. A dramatic Travelmasti site.

Places to visit

Dashavatar Temple :

This fine Gupta temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is the earliest known Panchyatan temple in north India. The terraced basement above the high plinth is decorated with sculpted panels. The figures of Ganga and Yamuna adorn the carved doorway leading to the sanctum sanctorum. Three large carved panels along the side walls-the Gajendramoksha panel, the Nar Narayan Tapasya and the Anantshayi Vishnu-depict scenes from Vaishnava mythology. Only the lower portion remains of the spire, which was the most important part of the temple.

Jain Temples :

These 31 Jain temples are somewhat later in origin that the Vishnu temple, but are no less remarkable. They are situated inside the fort of Kanali on the hills overlooking the Betwa. The site was a Jain center from the 6th to the 17th century. The temples abound in panels depicting scenes from Jain mythology, Tirthankara images, votive pillars, votive tablets, Jain images visible from all sides and pillars carved with a thousand Jain figures.

Deogarh Musuem :

The site museum has a fine collection of sculpture, discovered from the surrounding.

Excursions

Chanderi

This town in M.P. is famous for its gossamer - like saris, also has fine examples of Rajput and Sultanate architecture. A magnificent Mughal fort dominates the skyline. Among the interesting sites are the Koshak Mahal, the Badal Mahal Victory arch, the Jama Masjid and ancient Jain temples.

Barua Sagar

The place is named after the Barua Sagar Tal, a large lake created about 260 years ago when Raja Udit Singh of Orchha built the embankment. The Barua Sagar fort, picturesquely located at a height, commands an excellent view of the lake and surrounding landscape. The town is situated on the road to Khajuraho from Jhansi.

Orchha

This 16th century city in M.P. Is located on the banks of the Betwa river. The many temples and palaces here are fine examples of Bundela architecture. Other interesting excursions include Matatila Dam, Tal Behat and Lalitpur.

Location and Transport

Air:
Nearest airport is at Gwalior : 235 km.

Rail :
The nearest railway station is Jakhlaun 13 km, which can be reached by Jhansi-Babina Passenger train, whereas Lalitpur is the most convenient railhead, 23 km from Deogarh.

Road :
Deogarh is connected by bus to all important centers in the region. Some of the major road distances are : Lalitpur-23 km, Matatila Dam-93 km, Jhansi 123 km.